Meeting local apprentices, businesses and training providers in Darwin this week has reinforced the vital role vocational education and training and Australian Apprenticeships plays, Assistant Minister Karen Andrews said.
Rounding out her visit with a meeting today with GTNT, the Northern Territory’s largest employer of apprentices and trainees, Minister Andrews said she has seen many examples of the value of apprenticeships and traineeships in action.
“This week Darwin played host to many of the women and men who make Australia’s vocational education and training system the world class sector it is,” Minister Andrews said.
“It was great to meet local training providers and employers of apprentices and trainees – people and businesses who understand the importance of passing on skills and supporting the next generation of skilled employees.
“It was also wonderful to meet local apprentices, like the NT’s Ella Cavallaro, who was a finalist for the Australian Apprentice of the Year Award on Thursday.
“Other locals, such as Max David, a GTNT apprentice and a valued member of Bridge Toyota, also highlight that a quality Australian Apprenticeship can set you on the path to a rewarding career.”
Minister Andrews said an overwhelming majority of apprentices remain employed following their training.
“We know that over 84 per cent of Australian Apprentices are still employed once they finish training, and for trade apprentices it is over 90 per cent,” she said.
“Quality vocational education and training provides Australians with the skills they need and that employers demand. So don’t underestimate the value of skills and training.
“You don’t need to go to uni to develop important skills and get a job. An Australian Apprenticeship and VET can help you realise your goals.”